$110 million Kingsport budget passes first reading

A proposed $110 million budget for the City of Kingsport’s 2026 fiscal year passed its first reading at the Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting Tuesday. City Manager Chris McCartt said the Fiscal Year 2026 budget will focus on the cities priorities. Some of those priorities included government efficiency, infrastructure and world class education. The recommended budget requires an increase in property tax revenue of $9.8 million. Funds will be generated by a property tax increase of $0.33, increasing from a rate of $1.34 to $1.67. The budget’s second and final reading is scheduled for June 17 at 7 p.m. The new fiscal year begins on July 1.